Spring Concert

Stay in touch with us year-round!

Community Outreach

The Cantigas Women's Choir advocates through song for those whose
hearts need to be uplifted and whose voices need to be heard. The choir
has appeared with inmates at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for
Women in Clinton, New Jersey, and has sung on behalf of cancer
survivors in Bayonne, New Jersey. The Cantigas Women's Choir supports
the developing artistry of young musicians and frequently invites them
to perform at Cantigas concerts.

Edna Mahan Correctional Facility Program

"Although our little visit was brief, and it is not within the scope of a women's choir to heal all the problems of the world, we do have some impact if we are able to impart the right spirit to the women. I think we succeeded in this."

— Frances (alto)

Cantigas has performed for the inmates at Edna Mahan with the intention
to uplift, heal, and inspire through the power of song. In previous
years Cantigas has performed in the minimum security section of the
prison. Our recent programs took place in the maximum security section
and were intended to encourage participation by the inmates as much as
possible.

Entering the maximum security part of the prison takes a great deal of
planning to be in compliance with the security requirements. Our goal
once we have entered is to give the audience an enjoyable and
inspirational time. We make custom printed programs so that the
audience can follow and sing along when invited. Participation by the
audience extends and heightens the enjoyment of the experience for
everyone.

Cantigas hopes to foster a sense of community that crosses the
boundaries of race, age, background, and socio-economic status and with
the hope of healing the mind and spirit of others through song. In
2006, the prison audience was treated to virtuoso duets by violinist
Ashley Horne and his wife, pianist, Erasmia Voukelatos.

Community Concert Support Group, Bayonne

We have been performing for and with the Community Cancer Support Group
since 2005. When we perform, we open their meetings with a small
concert to inspire and uplift them as a part of their healing program.
We feel honored to be able to benefit this group and we are always
touched by their response.